Mon Aug 07 2023
- fixed blocker
- minor bugfixes
Lacuna is a masterclass in modern adventure gaming. It ditches the archaic 'item combination' puzzles that often plague the genre, opting instead for a logic-based investigation system that feels grounded and high-stakes. The pixel art is hauntingly beautiful, depicting a rainy, neon-soaked cyberpunk world that feels lived-in and deeply melancholic.
The choices you make are genuinely harrowing because the game doesn't allow for manual save-scumming—you have to live with the consequences of your deductions. This adds a level of tension I rarely feel in detective games. The writing is sharp, cynical, and avoids the usual tropes, making Neil Conrad one of the most compelling protagonists in recent years. It’s an essential experience for fans of sci-fi noir and deep, branching narratives.
Branching narrative with multiple endings
Unique logic-based investigation mechanics
Atmospheric cyberpunk pixel art
Dialogue-heavy, mature storytelling
Permanent choices and no save-scumming
Use the 'Outline' mode to quickly identify interactable objects in the environment. When questioning suspects, pay close attention to inconsistencies in their statements compared to the documents in your 'Cell' device. Your final report is what matters—don't rush it.
Throughout your investigation, you'll fill out 'Sheets'—digital reports where you select the culprits and motives based on your findings. Submitting these reports moves the plot forward permanently, often locking out other paths.
The 'puzzles' are based on your ability to process information and make correct deductions rather than using items on objects.
This game is really well done and I’ve enjoyed it so far. Unfortunately it verges on unplayable with the amount it freezes. This honestly wouldn’t be a huge deal except that you can’t save so you lose some of your progress when it freezes. It’s frustrating to have to go back and repeat the same scenes. Most freezes happen after using the “investigate” button so that’s clearly an issue. Only buy this if you’re willing to play scenes over again.
I haven’t finished it yet, but I felt compelled to write a review upon seeing another reviewer give this incredible game just one star because they’re having some technical issue.. I would hope that when people have these types of issues they attempt to resolve them with the developer first. I have had no issues with the game at all, I’m playing on an older iPad Pro. The story is captivating and engaging and I had trouble putting it down to go to sleep. I love the old school graphics, and the main character narration. I’m excited to continue playing and see where the story goes! I highly recommend this game if you enjoy a thrilling adventure.
Great art, great voice acting, great story! Worked perfectly fine on my iPad Air and felt like I was using an in-game device when reading email, news, or sheets. Sorry but you’ve got to be a moron to download this on your phone (who plays games like this on a phone???), and contact developers if you have issues with your device rather than leaving a review, it’s not difficult. You’ll def love this game if you’re into point and click adventures and scifi mysteries!
if only the game didn’t freeze on me at 64% complete. tried half a dozen times submitting a sheet and every time I do the game movement locks up. literally can’t play anymore. very disappointing.
A little bit of bugs here and there, but my god what a game. Story was amazing I’m just saddened it ended so quick. Overall one of the most creative games I ever played thank you.
I’m honestly surprised there aren’t more 4 or 5 star reviews. This is an amazing game with gorgeous pixel art. An interesting whodunnit with a good story to boot. So if that’s remotely your thing—give this game a try, you’ll really enjoy it.
I really would like to play this game that I purchased, but it shuts off at the preview screen! Right when I see, “Assemble Entertainment” the game shuts off. I’ve deleted off my tablet twice now and downloaded it again, it’s still not working. I’ve reported the issue, I’ll have to request a refund if it doesn’t work.
I tried standing in other places in the room before I clicked the star map and one spot solved it. I can now resume the game